Bone fractures heal through a biological process involving inflammation, soft callus formation, and bone remodelling. An orthopedic doctor ensures proper bone alignment and effective healing for optimal recovery.
Bone breaks or fractures are injuries that occur for several reasons, including falls, accidents, or sports injuries. It is crucial to know how the fracture heals for those recovering from a recent fracture or those involved in activities that carry a risk of fractures. Healing from a fracture is a process that is not only multistage but also requires medical intervention and sometimes a little patience. In this blog, we will discuss the phases of fracture healing and the role of orthopedic doctors in the healing process.
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Fractures and Healing Process Stages
A fracture is defined as a break in the continuity of a bone. The type of fracture depends on the force that was applied to the bone and the strength of the bone at the time of the fracture.
The healing process begins immediately after the fracture occurs. This process typically unfolds in three stages:
- Inflammation (Reactive Phase):
- Initial Response: In the first few minutes of the fracture, the blood vessels in the bone and the soft tissues surrounding it are damaged, and blood starts to clot to form a hematoma. This clot forms the foundation of the healing process.
- Inflammation: The immune system of the body responds by causing inflammation to help clean up the damaged bone and tissue. Inflammatory cells release substances that draw other cells to start the process of healing.
- Duration: This phase usually lasts a few days.
- Repair (Reparative Phase):
- Soft Callus Formation: After a few days post-injury, the body begins to form a soft callus around the fractured area.
- Hard Callus Formation: Over the next few weeks, the soft callus is gradually replaced by new bone tissue, forming a hard callus. This process strengthens the fracture site and gets it ready for complete healing.
- Duration: This phase can take from several weeks to several months depending on the type of the fracture and the bone which is affected.
- Remodelling (Maturation Phase):
- Bone Remodelling: The final stage is the formation of the mature bone tissue by the body in the area of the hard callus. This may take several months, and during this period the bone is gradually strengthening and changing its shape to the original one.
- Complete Healing: The bone forms and returns to its pre-injury state again, but it may be slightly wider or more dense at the fracture line.
- Duration: The remodelling phase may take several months to a year or even more, depending on factors such as age, general health, and the location of the fracture.
For expert care and optimal recovery from fractures, consult Dr Sanjay Pai, the best orthopedic doctor in Bangalore.
The Role of an Orthopedic Doctor in Fracture Healing
Fractures are treated by orthopedic doctors. They play a crucial role during the healing process of bone breaks, and their experience ensures that the fracture is well-aligned. Here’s how an orthopedic doctor contributes to the recovery process:
- Diagnosis and Imaging: Fractures are identified through X-rays, CT scans or MRIs by orthopedic doctors to determine the extent of the fracture and the treatment that should be given.
- Reduction of the Fracture: In case the bones are displaced, the doctor may need to realign them in a process known as reduction.
- Immobilisation: The fracture is often fixed by placing a cast, splint or brace around the affected area to ensure that the bones are aligned as they heal. In some cases, the bone may have to be fixed by plates, screws, or rods through surgery.
- Pain Management: Pain management is a critical component of fracture management. Orthopedic doctors prescribe drugs for pain and inflammation so that the patient is comfortable during the healing process.
- Monitoring Progress: Regular check-ups are done to monitor the healing of the affected area. The doctor may require more X-rays to ensure that the bone is healing well and if there’s a need to change the treatment plan.
- Rehabilitation: Once the bone is healed, the doctor may recommend physical therapy to enhance the strength, flexibility, and function of the affected area.
When to Consult an Orthopedic Doctor?
If one feels that he or she has a fracture or has any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic doctor:
- Severe Pain: Sharp pain when touched at the site of the injury and if the pain intensifies when the person moves.
- Swelling and Bruising: Any kind of injury that is associated with pain, numbness or tingling sensation, swelling or deformity.
- Inability to Move: Pain when one tries to use the affected limb or when bearing weight on it.
- Open Wound: A break in the bone where the broken ends of the bone are exposed through the skin (open fracture).
- Delayed Healing: If you have had a fracture and it is not healing or if there is pain and swelling that persists after a few weeks.
Fractures are common but can become troublesome if not well managed. Thus, it is necessary to be informed about the stages of fracture healing and when to consult an orthopedic doctor. By following your doctor’s advice and prescriptions, following a healthy lifestyle, and attending follow-up appointments, you can boost your recovery and return to your bone’s normal functioning soon. If you suspect having a fracture or any other bone-related problem, you should immediately consult the best orthopedic doctor in Bangalore, Dr Sanjay Pai, through Apollo to get the right treatment.